Specialist dog officers led the raids with officers from Belmont and Wealdstone Safer Neighbourhood Teams, after a tip-off that illegal breeds of dogs were living at the homes.

The dogs, all suspected pitbull types, were taken away to be examined to determine if they are banned breeds.

The Harrow Times joined officers on the raids, and discussed how the dogs – if illegal – would not necessarily be destroyed and could be returned to their owners if made safe using
microchipping and neutering.